10 Best Handheld Vacuums 2026 in the United States

The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum (model IX141) is designed to tackle pet hair and household messes efficiently, making it a solid choice for pet owners and those needing a lightweight vacuum for quick clean-ups. One of its standout features is the hypervelocity suction, which provides robust cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors. With a respectable battery life of up to 40 minutes, you can cover a good amount of space before needing to recharge. The removable hand vacuum adds versatility, allowing you to reach above-floor areas easily, and the LED headlights help spot hidden dirt in darker corners.

Weighing just under 7 pounds, this vacuum is quite portable, especially when compared to traditional vacuums, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. The XL dust cup is another plus, offering a decent capacity of 0.34 quarts, and its CleanTouch Dirt Ejector feature simplifies disposal without mess.

However, there are a few drawbacks worth considering. The noise level is on the higher side at 80 dB, which might be bothersome in quieter settings. Additionally, while the vacuum is generally well-reviewed, some users have mentioned that it may not be powerful enough for larger homes or heavy-duty cleaning tasks. The 240-minute charging time may also be a bit long for those who prefer quicker recharges.

The Dyson V15 Detect Plus Cordless Vacuum is a powerful and intelligent option for whole-home deep cleaning. With its strong suction power and up to 60 minutes of battery life, it handles various cleaning tasks efficiently. The vacuum's lightweight design at 6.8 pounds makes it easy to maneuver, while the 0.2-gallon dust capacity might require frequent emptying for larger cleaning jobs.

The vacuum comes with multiple attachments, including two advanced cleaner heads and a Hair screw tool, making it versatile for different surfaces and cleaning needs. The HEPA filter is a big plus, capturing 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns and ensuring cleaner air is expelled. The noise level is relatively low at 70 dB, which is quieter compared to some other models.

The LCD screen and intelligent power adaptation based on debris and floor type add a layer of convenience and efficiency. However, the premium features come at a higher price point, and the dust capacity might be a limitation for extensive cleaning sessions. This vacuum is best suited for users who need a high-performance, versatile, and easy-to-use cleaning tool for their home.

The Dyson V8 Plus Cordless Vacuum is a versatile and lightweight handheld vacuum that offers several appealing features for everyday cleaning tasks. At 5.6 pounds, it's easy to maneuver and handle, making it suitable for quick cleanups and deep cleaning alike. The vacuum provides up to 40 minutes of fade-free power, which should be sufficient for most household cleaning sessions. It has two power modes—Powerful mode for regular cleaning and MAX mode for intensive spot cleaning—giving users flexibility based on their needs. The included lithium-ion battery ensures reliable performance, although a full charge is recommended before use to maximize runtime.

The vacuum excels at pet hair removal, thanks to the Motorbar cleaner head and Hair screw tool that effectively detangle and collect long hair and pet hair from various surfaces. It also comes with four additional Dyson-engineered accessories that help clean hard-to-reach spots. One of its standout features is the advanced whole-machine filtration system, which traps 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, ensuring cleaner air is expelled. The HEPA filter is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.

On the downside, the dust capacity is relatively small at 0.14 gallons, so frequent emptying may be necessary during more extensive cleaning tasks. Additionally, with a noise level of 70 dB, it may be a bit loud for some users, although this is a typical level for many vacuums. For those with a diverse range of cleaning needs, especially pet owners, the Dyson V8 Plus proves to be a robust choice, combining powerful suction, versatile attachments, and effective filtration.